Bamana Door Lock Mali

Overall Condition: Fair. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.   We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings.  Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage.

Damage/Repair: Well worn patina, oxidation

Bamana door locks are composed of two parts: one is a fixed vertical element which is most often carved with abstract,  human or animal form fixed to the door with iron staples. The second part of the door lock is a horizontal wooden piece that slides through the vertical piece where iron teeth would fall into small holes locking the door.

The doors had pointed corners that served as hinges and a sculpted wooden lock to keep it closed. A small key would lift the iron pegs to open the door.  The sliding locking bar passed just behind the vertical part. The face on this door lock is carved in a Bamana style and recalls Bamana figures identified as representations of an ancestor, whose presence is required to ensure protection and prevent the intrusion of bad spirits and sorcerers.